A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, for a severe infection.
The nurse should monitor the client for which adverse effects of this drug? (Select all that apply.)
A.
Ototoxicity
B.
Nephrotoxicity
C.
Hepatotoxicity
D.
Neuromuscular blockade
E.
Thrombocytopenia.
The correct answers are:
A. Ototoxicity B. Nephrotoxicity D. Neuromuscular blockade
Explanation: Gentamicin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is associated with several significant adverse effects:
- A. Ototoxicity: Gentamicin can cause damage to the inner ear, leading to hearing loss, tinnitus, or balance issues. This is due to its accumulation in the cochlear and vestibular tissues.
- B. Nephrotoxicity: Gentamicin can also cause kidney damage, especially in patients with pre-existing renal conditions or when used in high doses. Nephrotoxicity is one of the most concerning side effects, so renal function should be closely monitored.
- D. Neuromuscular blockade: Although rare, gentamicin can interfere with neuromuscular transmission, potentially leading to muscle weakness or respiratory depression. This is particularly a concern in patients with underlying neuromuscular disorders or those receiving other neuromuscular blocking agents.
The other options are less commonly associated with gentamicin:
- C. Hepatotoxicity: Gentamicin is not typically associated with liver damage.
- E. Thrombocytopenia: While blood dyscrasias can occur with some medications, thrombocytopenia is not a common adverse effect of gentamicin.